My approach to counseling is strengths and solution focused. I have extensive knowledge in cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy techniques as well as trauma informed interventions and approaches. I also utilize mindfulness and narrative techniques to increase client’s participation and awareness. I believe in the inherent worth of all of my clients, and I aim to provide a feeling of safety and security during my sessions while also continuously challenging my clients in reaching their goals. I have experience in providing individual, family, and group therapy.
My Professional Background
I primarily have experience working with children and adolescents alongside their families in an acute, crisis setting, as well as in a school setting. I help youth to manage their feelings of self-doubt and low self-worth, self-harm, anger management, identity issues (related to familial structures, LGBTQ, gender, economic status, and racial/ethnic affiliations), grief and loss, and mental health concerns (including, but limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD). I have most recently worked with the geriatric population in nursing homes, in which the work focused on grief and loss concerns, life transitioning, family engagement, and end of life issues. Although the following populations are where I have the most knowledge, I also has experience with military and military families (as well as having been a military dependent as both a child and currently a spouse), adults with substance abuse and co-occurring mental health concerns, and with adults with acute, mental health issues. Future goals for myself is to become fully certified as an infertility counselor through the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Education, Training, and Certifications
- Bachelor of Music, Concentration Music Therapy, University of the Incarnate Word
- Master of Social Work, University of Texas San Antonio
- Music Therapy – Board Certified
Fun Facts
I am a vocalist. I have sung in a choir setting during my middle school, high school, and college years. I am currently a part of my church choir at the Unitarian Universalist Church of San Antonio. I dabble in playing the guitar and the piano. I have been a full-time, stay at home mother with my daughter. My daughter was born using IVF, which is why I am interested in infertility counseling. I enjoy going for walks and being around water, rivers, lakes, and the ocean. When natural bodies of water are not available, I enjoy swimming at pools or going to splash pads with my daughter. I enjoy nerd culture, and prefer Marvel over DC comics, play video games on occasion, and my Hogwarts House is Hufflepuff.